Eating Disorders
Many people may be concerned about their health, weight, or appearance from time to time. But some people become fixated or obsessed with weight loss, body weight or shape, and controlling their food intake. These may be signs of an eating disorder.
Eating disorders aren’t a choice. They’re a serious illness. They can change a person’s physical and mental health. In some cases, they can be life-threatening. With treatment, people can recover completely from eating disorders.
Risk Factors
People of all ages, racial and ethnic backgrounds, body weight, and genders can have eating disorders.
Often, symptoms appear between the teen years and young adulthood. They may also develop during childhood or later in life. People with eating disorders may seem healthy yet may be extremely ill.
These factors increase a person’s risk:
- Genetic
- Biological
- Behavioral
- Psychological
- Social
Symptoms
There are several types of eating disorders, and each has specific symptoms.
Managing Eating Disorders
Treatment plans for eating disorders include:
- Psychotherapy (“talk therapy”)
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
- Medical care and monitoring
- Nutritional counseling
- Medication
Typical treatment goals include:
- Restoring adequate nutrition
- Bringing weight to a healthy level
- Reducing excessive exercise
- Stopping binge-purge and binge-eating behaviors
TRICARE Coverage
Resources
Let's Talk About Eating Disorders
Psychological Health Center of Excellence
When Food Consumes You: Taking Eating Extremes
The Case Management Program supports qualifying TRICARE East beneficiaries with an eating disorder. Our experienced clinicians will help you improve how you manage your condition and your overall quality of life. Have questions or want to enroll in the program? Call us toll-free at 800-881-9227.
Last Updated 11/22/2024